As the world gradually returns to travel in a society that constantly asks us to do more and do it faster, it makes sense that the demand for ‘me time’ and relaxing holidays far away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities is on the increase. Indeed, the necessity of dedicating time to our mental health and physical wellness is now often part of the checklist when planning a trip away. Reconnecting with nature and adopting a more proactive approach towards both our physical and mental wellbeing has become a key focus for many travellers, particularly for those who have been confined to cities with little access to natural green spaces, and working from home during the pandemic.
You are probably already thinking about summer, dreaming of the sandy beaches in a sun-soaked resort and with this in mind we have put together a guide to help you choose the perfect summer destination for you.
Bodrum, Turkey
One of the most popular destinations along Turkey’s Aegean coast is Bodrum. Despite being a popular tourist destination, the city has worked hard to maintain its local character, the forested hills offer good walking and biking, and the secluded coves provide ample opportunity for relaxed swimming and sunbathing. You can get your trip off to a stylish start as soon as you land, at the Primeclass Lounge at Bodrum International Airport.
Embracing the sea near the historical shoreline of Bodrum is a must when visiting, and we would recommend you stay at the Sianji Wellbeing Resort, if sun, sea and serenity is what you are seeking. Sianji is the perfect summer choice for those in search of great value, but with a positive effect on their health. Relaxed combination of wellbeing and leisure will suit those who want to take it easy. The resort offers a range of cleanse programmes such as juicing or raw food which will please wellness junkies. Let’s not forget that the warm Mediterranean climate makes this a top destination to soak up some Vitamin D all year round. Of course there’s plenty more to do on this picturesque island, including a wealth of natural and historical sights right on its doorstep. Here’s a list of some of the best things you can do, when visiting.
Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
We have plenty of lounge options, if you’re flying into Mexico. One of the best countries to visit in the summer, if you’re a foodie, and let’s in face it who isn’t these days, you will love the selection of restaurants the Riviera’s trendiest spot has to offer. Just over 45 minute drive from the airport, Playa Del Carmen happens to be a beautiful beach town in Mexico and is a little less touristy and crowded than the other mainstream resorts, which is why many choose to visit. Here, you can go snorkelling at Cenote Dos Ojos, or at Cenote Azul, among other water sports. You can also visit South of Playa which has the ancient Mayan ruins in the town of Tulum. If you are specifically after some wellness activities, there are plenty of options at affordable prices in Playa Del Carmen. You can take part in the ancient Mayan ceremony of temazcal, a ritual that uses hot stones to revitalise the energy of those who choose to participate – sounds pretty cool and relaxing!
Las Vegas, USA
While many may overlook Vegas as a summer destnation, believe us, it is a great place to holiday in the USA, especially when the temperatures rise as that sets the time for the world’s best pool settings, making it one of the best summer hotspots. A Vegas holiday is truly a balancing act. Is it possible to feel both good and relaxed, and have fun in a metropolis that specialises in guilty pleasures? Absolutely, we think so, all in moderation. Vegas was once synonymous with what-happens-in-Vegas-stays-in-Vegas hedonism, but now, the city is promising more than just sin. It’s also a destination for rest and rejuvenation. For total escapism, we recommend you check out the Canyon Ranch, where you will enter a sanctuary of wellness. To reach this 134,000-square-foot spa and fitness centre from the Venetian Resort, where it’s housed, you have to take a long, winding walk, but the distance only makes this Canyon Ranch outpost feel totally removed from the Vegas clamour, making it the perfect place to escape the bright lights of the Las Vegas Strip. Another hidden oasis is The Spa at Aria, recommended by Forbes for its five-star amenities. Before a treatment at this haven, guests can unwind in a circuit of complimentary areas: hang out in the salt-brick room, said to improve your respiratory system, or try the Ganbanyoku (Japanese hot stone) beds, designed to relax your muscles, increase circulation and accelerate metabolism. Now if that doesn’t sound relaxing, not sure what does – we are sold! The good news keeps on coming, your holiday of wellness doesn’t have to end here. You can continue to lounge around at The Club LAS Lounge and recharge with tasty, complimentary food and beverages before you hop on the plane back home.
Crete, Greece
The last, but definitely not the least on our summer destination list is the island of Crete in Greece. Heraklion, the capital of Crete, may not be the most obvious choice for Grecian holiday seekers, but that is what makes it a worthy, hidden gem contender. Crete offers the perfect place for rest and rejuvenation, with hundreds of beaches, wide open spaces, mountains and world class hospitality. Flying into the main airport, Heraklion International means that you are in close proximity to all the beautiful resorts on the island, and of course on the doorstep of the Goldair Handling Lounge, where your Priority Pass Membership steps in to ensure you don’t miss out on those so important perks before you step into the ancient land of wellness. Just 20 km from Heraklion town and 50 km from Rethymnon town, Agia Pelagia is one of our favourite seaside villages in Crete, combining wonderful views, natural rugged coastline, bays, inlets and sandy beaches with turquoise waters, a string of tavernas and great facilities. Out of the Blue Resort in Agia Pelagia is simply a spectacular resort we can’t recommend enough. Physical beauty and plenty of open space await you at this garden-filled peninsula, complimented by a fine selection of accommodation options, and fine dining experiences. You can enjoy private massage sessions, unique hydrotherapies and health retreats supported by organic food options within the grounds of the resort.
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